Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Hourly
Range $15.00 - $19.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Plan
Paid Time Off
Travel covered
room and board covered
Uniforms Provided
training provided

Job Description

American Cruise Lines is the largest cruise line in the United States, renowned for offering exceptional river cruising experiences across America. The company operates a diverse fleet of contemporary riverboats and paddlewheel steamboats, navigating various itineraries along the nation's most scenic rivers. With a focus on quality, comfort, and authentic American experiences, American Cruise Lines provides guests with a unique blend of modern amenities and classic riverboat charm. The establishment prides itself on delivering first-class service and exceptional dining experiences that highlight regional and local culinary specialties. Employees benefit from a supportive and values-driven workplace culture centered on optimism, commitment, patriotism, and merit.

The role of the Line Cook on American Cruise Lines is a vital position within the shipboard culinary team for the upcoming 2026 season. This is a full-time, exempt role requiring dedication and passion for food service at sea. As a Line Cook, you will be responsible for producing breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, working closely with the Executive Chef and Sous Chef to deliver a haute cuisine dining experience tailored to the fresh, locally inspired ingredients available. Your work will directly impact the guests' satisfaction by preparing diverse, high-quality dishes that adhere to established menus and accommodate special dietary requests. Navigating the complexities of a shipboard kitchen, you will play a crucial part in maintaining kitchen discipline, hygiene standards, and efficient operations in a dynamic environment subject to constant motion due to the ship's movement.

Living and working onboard, you will enjoy comfortable accommodations and a well-equipped galley with stunning views. The position demands strong organizational skills, excellent communication, and the ability to perform under pressure while maintaining high standards of food safety and culinary excellence. The Line Cook role also requires physical stamina to work long shifts, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and perform essential safety duties onboard. In return, American Cruise Lines offers competitive compensation, including a competitive daily rate, comprehensive health benefits, 401(k) with matching, and covered expenses such as travel, room and board, uniforms, and training. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for culinary professionals who want to combine their love for cooking with the adventure of river cruising across America, providing guests an unforgettable dining journey on some of the finest American ships.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 2 years of culinary experience
  • Experience with all meal services including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Knowledge of food safety standards
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
  • Ability to complete a criminal background check
  • Possession of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Ability to work 7 days per week onboard the ship
  • Ability to stand for entire shifts
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
  • Ability to work 12 hours per day
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods
  • Ability to climb ladders and maneuver through confined spaces
  • Effective communication skills
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Ability to multi-task

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum 2 years of culinary experience in full-service resort, hotel, country club, or full-service restaurant
  • Experience cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Familiarity with food safety standards
  • Strong problem solving skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Self-motivation
  • Effective leadership and time management abilities
  • Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug test
  • Ability to complete criminal background check
  • Possession of Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation

Job Duties

  • Work directly with the Executive Chef and Sous Chef to produce diversified meals for guests based on fresh ingredients
  • Organize workload efficiently to ensure smooth kitchen processes
  • Produce high-quality dishes following established menu choices
  • Adhere to guests’ dietary requests
  • Maintain order and discipline in the kitchen during work hours
  • Ensure hygiene and food safety standards throughout food preparation
  • Prepare meals quickly and deliciously
  • Enforce food and safety standards
  • Communicate effectively with coworkers during meal services

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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